MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, ruled against suspended National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority Director General Emma Metieh-Glassco, ordering her to pay a fine of five hundred United States dollars within 72 hours for alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct.
Announcing the decision, Ombudsman Chairperson Cllr. Finley Kangar stated that the findings of the investigation confirmed misconduct on the part of Madam Glassco. Her actions, deemed inappropriate for a public official, allegedly included arrogance and disregard for her subordinates. Failure to comply with the fine, Kangar warned, would result in enforcement measures in line with legal provisions.
The ruling also mandates that all individuals dismissed by Madam Glassco without valid justification submit their names to the NaFAA Board of Directors within a 30-day period for case reviews. This directive aims to address concerns of wrongful termination under her tenure.
Madam Glassco’s suspension was previously ordered by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., following recommendations from NaFAA’s governing board. The President cited concerns over poor financial management and administrative inefficiencies, reinforcing the need for disciplinary measures.
Further complicating matters, the Office of the Ombudsman noted that Madam Glassco exhibited inappropriate behavior during an official proceeding, conduct it described as unbefitting of her position. Based on these findings, the body has urged the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to conduct further inquiries into her leadership practices.
Amid the ongoing proceedings, Madam Glassco has enlisted the legal services of former Associate Justice Kabineh Ja’neh to challenge the ruling and defend against the allegations.
